Whooping cough (Pertussis)

Like most childhood illnesses, whooping cough starts off with a runny nose, a cough and a slight temperature. This period can last for up to two weeks.

This will be followed by severe, paroxysmal coughing when your child will have difficulty drawing breath. This is when the characteristic “whoop” occurs. Breathing difficulties are even greater for babies, who may not develop the technique of whooping to get air into the lungs.

A vaccination against whooping cough can be given at the same time as the diphtheria and tetanus vaccination (see Immunization chart).

What to do

Ask for medical advice. Antibiotics are effective in the runny nose stage. People who've been in close contact with the infected child may be protected from whooping cough if given antibiotics during the incubation period. When your child starts on a coughing bout, hold him firmly and try to calm him down. If he's tense he'll find it even more difficult to catch his breath. Support him in a sitting position to make breathing easier. Eating may provoke vomiting. Try giving small amounts of easily eaten food (mashed if necessary) immediately after a coughing fit.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 03.11.2010

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